Incident
On 8 July 1999 at 1533 UTC, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration G-BSVF) was taxiing from the refuelling pump to the apron at Wycombe Air Park, Buckinghamshire. The taxi route required passing in front of a row of parked aircraft, then a right turn through 180° to pass behind that row but in front of a second row of parked aircraft. The taxiway was marked with a yellow centreline, and ample space existed between the rows. During the right turn, the pilot felt the left brake toe-pedal was "spongy". The aircraft veered left off the centreline, and its left wingtip struck the nose of a parked Cessna 172. The pilot applied the parking brake, advised ATC of the situation, shut down the engine, and vacated the aircraft.
Aircraft and Pilot
The aircraft was a 1984 Piper PA-28-161 powered by a single Lycoming O-320-D3G piston engine. The private pilot, aged 55, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had 265 total flying hours, including 62 on type. His flying experience in the last 28 days was 2 hours. The aircraft sustained a dented left wingtip; the parked Cessna 172 had a dent in its engine cowling. No injuries occurred.
Investigation
Post-accident brake tests by the maintenance organisation showed the parking brake was sufficient to prevent movement when pushed. After releasing the brakes and separating the aircraft, the brakes and nosewheel steering were tested during taxiing under power and found fault-free. The pilot stated that eye witnesses reported he was taxiing too fast, but he disagreed, noting the throttle was at idle during the turn. When the brake issue arose, he applied full right rudder, which was insufficient to tighten the turn. He opined that the minor damage was inconsistent with excessive taxi speed.